Diabetic Foot Neuropathy and Its Risk Factors

Diabetic foot neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that affects the feet and is a complication of diabetes. It occurs when prolonged high blood sugar levels damage the peripheral nerves, leading to reduced sensation, tingling, pain, or even numbness in the feet. This condition can make it difficult to feel injuries, increasing the risk of infections and serious foot problems. Several risk factors contribute to the development of diabetic foot neuropathy. Poor blood sugar control over time is a primary cause. Other factors include having diabetes for many years, smoking, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Obesity and a lack of physical activity may also increase the risk. If you have diabetes and have encountered these symptoms, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to monitor this serious condition.
Neuropathy
Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff from Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.
What Is Neuropathy?
Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.
Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:
- Numbness
- Sensation loss
- Prickling and tingling sensations
- Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
- Muscle weakness
Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.
Treatment
To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.
Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lake Worth, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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Understanding Lisfranc Fractures

A Lisfranc fracture is an injury to the midfoot, where the metatarsal bones connect to the tarsal bones. This type of fracture can occur from a fall, a twist of the foot, or direct trauma, such as dropping something heavy on the foot, or a sports-related impact. Symptoms often include swelling, bruising on the top or bottom of the foot, pain while standing or walking, and an inability to bear weight. It may feel like a sprain at first, but without proper treatment, it can lead to long-term complications, like chronic pain or arthritis. A podiatrist can diagnose a Lisfranc fracture through a physical exam and imaging tests like X-rays or MRI scans. Treatment depends on the severity and may include immobilization with a cast or boot, or surgery to realign and stabilize the bones with screws or plates. Early diagnosis and care are essential for a full recovery. If you have this type of foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment to see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff from Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury.
Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:
- Bruising
- Pain
- Redness
- Swelling
- Blue in color
- Numbness
- Cold
- Misshapen
- Cuts
- Deformities
Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.
Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Lake Worth, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Treating Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, especially in active adults or those who are on their feet for long periods. It develops when the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed. Treatment often begins with rest and stretching exercises to reduce strain on the fascia. Supportive footwear and custom orthotics can help redistribute pressure and prevent further injury. In some cases, night splints or anti-inflammatory medications may help. More persistent cases might benefit from shockwave therapy or corticosteroid injections. Surgery is rarely needed but is available for severe, long-standing pain that does not improve. Early care makes a significant difference in recovery time and overall outcome. If you have ongoing heel pain that may be plantar fasciitis, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Kevin H. Lapoff from Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
- Excessive running
- Having high arches in your feet
- Other foot issues such as flat feet
- Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
- Being on your feet very often
There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.
Prevention
- Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
- Maintain a healthy weight
- If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain
There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lake Worth, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.